James ‘Moonwalker’ Moontasri started fighting professionally in 2008. The silver medalist at the 2007 Pan American Games in Taekwondo, and now 4th degree black belt in the art made great use of his base, with an exciting, fan-friendly, kick-heavy fighting style.

Moonwalker went 7-1, including 3-0 in the RFA, before signing with the UFC in 2014. He went 1-2 in the UFC at lightweight and struggled to make weight. Then the Team Blackhouse fighter moved up to welterweight, and still reportedly struggled to make weight, and again went 1-2.

Now he has announced his retirement, via his social network.

“Thank you to the UFC and all of the people who have supported me,” he wrote. “I have been given so many fair opportunities and I am very proud of everything I was able to accomplish. I’m proud of myself and now I am excited for a new chapter in my life. Martial Arts is my life and that will never change. Thank you to my management, my coaches, and my amazing fans. I love you all very much.”

The UnderGround wishes Moonwalker every success as he moves on and forward.